Donner Lake

Donner Lake: A true jewel of the Sierras, Donner Lake is a clear, shiningly blue, pristine alpine lake with wonderful recreational opportunities year-round. Summertime offers temperate, sunny, blue sky days, with wonderful fishing, boating, and water sports, plus access to the backcountry for hiking and mountain biking.

The West End beach is a great place for a family picnic and a day in the sun: with an inviting sandy beach, a playground, and the cool, inviting lake for swimming and splashing. There are also many public docks that are a favorite for fishing, picnicking, and basking in the mountain sunshine. Additionally, the Donner Lake Property Owners’ Beach Club provides members with access to a private beach. In winter, Donner Lake transforms into a winter wonderland, with great access to 4 major ski areas: Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows, Northstar, and Sugar Bowl just minutes away.  Donner Lake is a beautiful area and famous for its history of the Donner Party where you can find more information at the museum at the Donner Memorial State Park.